Vehicle-Attached Excavation Implement

ABSTRACT

A vehicle-attached, task-associated excavation implement with interchangeable rotational excavation apparatuses is conceptualized in this application. The implement is similar to McGee&#39;s Tractor-Mounted Excavation Implement, but is conceptualized in a new way of combing parts or portions of the implement with vehicles currently existing in the prior art, without the need for a tractor equipped with power-take-off. This vehicle-attached implement can be supported by a variety of motorized vehicles, utilizing a variety of apparatus-powering options. An assortment of steering options could be used, and movements of the apparatuses, either with or separate from the implement, provide diverse functionality. Tasks supported by the rotational excavating apparatuses include Foundation footings, trenches, rounded ditches, shallow V-shaped ditches, landscape or garden beds, and shallow graded depressions for sidewalks or simple slabs. Excavating apparatuses have claws or cutting elements attached to surface at angles to propel soil directionally.

CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of Provisional Patent Application No.62/388,601 entitled “Vehicled Rotary Excavator” and dated Feb. 2, 2016.

This application is partially related to previously awarded patent,awarded Nov. 24, 2015 to Bruce Wade McGee, and assigned U.S. Pat. No.9,194,103 B2. This application delineates a new combination of parts orportions of McGee's Tractor Mounted Excavation Implement withalternative vehicles commonly found in the prior art.

A regular patent application for Tractor Mounted Excavation ImplementEnhancements and Extensions was submitted on Feb. 25, 2017, and assignedapplication Ser. No. 15,415,811. The present application is related to,and claims benefit to, portions of the Enhancements and Extensionspresented in application Ser. No. 15,415,811. Application Ser. No.15,415,811 claimed benefit to the following Provisional PatentApplications:

-   -   Provisional Patent Application No. 62/388,350 entitled        “Rotational Bedder Apparatus” and dated Jan. 25, 2016.    -   Provisional Patent Application No. 62/388,393 entitled “Improved        Rotator and Axle for Excavation Implement” and dated Jan. 28,        2016.    -   Provisional Patent Application No. 62/390,517 entitled        “Excavation Implement Improvements” dated Mar. 31, 2016.

BACKGROUND

This proposed embodiment relates to excavation or earth loosening andmoving equipment, including backhoes, trenchers, ditchers, and rotaryequipment used in excavation. The proposed vehicle-attached excavationimplement will be useful in small-scale construction, hobby farming orgardening, landscaping, irrigation, utilities and pipe laying, roadsideor city development and maintenance in some areas, land-ownermaintenance, and possibly firefighting with rapid excavation needs insome less dense forests. This application delineates a new combinationuse of the previously patented Tractor Mounted Excavation Implement,awarded to the present applicant in 2015, wherein the implement andapparatuses are attached to, powered and maneuvered by, a vehicle,rather than pulled behind a tractor as in the previously patentedembodiment.

Discussion of the Prior Art

This application is primarily relevant as relates to the presentinventor's previous patent for a Tractor-Mounted Excavation Implement,awarded Nov. 24, 2015 to Bruce Wade McGee, and assigned U.S. Pat. No.9,194,103 B2. The patent has been assigned to McGee Innovation, LLC. Are-issue application has since been submitted to broaden several of theclaims in the awarded patent, assigned Ser. No. 14/999,506, and datedMay 17, 2016.

McGee's Tractor Mounted Excavation Implement is power-take-off drivenand attaches to a tractor's 3-point-hitch, with multiple interchangeablerotational excavation apparatuses, described as task-associated. Theimplement is presented with three interchangeable apparatuses addressingfour tasks, including apparatuses for foundation footers/trenches,rounded ditches, or shallow V-shaped ditches. Later improvements havebeen conceptualized and patents are pending, including the addition oftwo apparatuses, one for creating landscape or garden beds and one forshallow graded excavations for sidewalks or slabs. Additionally, severalother enhancements have been conceptualized, including the addition ofadjustable and extendable tines or cutting elements to increase range ofusefulness, and additions to the axle of certain apparatuses to improvethe movement of excavated soil onto the banks of the excavateddepression.

McGee's implement has the potential to revolutionize small-scaleexcavation. The unique value of McGee's implement is it's propensitytoward usefulness in multiple small-scale applications, but where speedand precise excavations are important requirements. Even so, theimplement's main drawback is that it must be pulled behind a tractor,with somewhat difficult transportation and maneuvering. It is alsolimited to power-take-off attachment for rotational power.

Concrete filled foundation footings are constructed around the perimeterof a building for structural support, and are typically dug by backhoesor track hoes. These machines are hefty and require heavy, large trucksand trailers for transport; transport itself can be dangerous andexpensive. Backhoes and track hoes have awkward, slow, and erraticmotions. Their resulting evacuated areas are not precise with cleansides, and often require significant backfill. Backhoes and track hoesare capable of deep, large excavations, and are appropriate in someinstances and certain geographical locations. However, in the Deep Southof the US, and in many other locations worldwide, small-scale excavationof shallower footings with lighter-weight equipment is appropriate.

Trenches for the laying of pipe and other applications are typically dugwith revolving chain cutters. Their width of cut is not easilyadjustable. They require extensive and expensive maintenance. Smallscale applications often use a portable trencher, and even though theseare smaller and lighter, they require separate transport to the site.

Small ditches for drainage are typically dug and shaped with hand toolsor tractor-mounted ditchers. The shape and cutting depth of theseimplements are limited and they are dependent on large equipment.

Grades for sidewalks, slabs, or flat surfaces are typically shaped by aboxblade attached to a tractor or by large grading equipment. Theseboxblade implements cannot easily excavate or penetrate into undisturbedground, sod, roots or similar obstacles. Small-scale applications areoften accomplished by hand with simple tools, perhaps with theassistance of a tiller or sod remover.

Bedding for landscapes or gardening are typically shaped by hand tools,or by using agricultural equipment geared toward large farming outfits.Agricultural implements are most often dependent on tractors, andrequire significant room for storage when not in use.

Each of the aforementioned excavation tasks are addressed by equipmentfound in the prior art. Excavators, chain-type trenchers, ditchers ofvarious shapes and sizes, box blades, scrapers, and landscape bed orfarm row creators are readily available in commercial use. Many of theseare attached to heavy equipment and are geared toward large constructionoperations. However, no one machine is found that can perform all, or acombination of, these tasks on a small scale, with speed, flexibilityand preciseness, while dispersing soil evenly on banks of excavatedarea.

Bruce Wade McGee's Tractor Mounted Excavation Implement solves many ofthese issues. However, the implement, in its initial embodiment, islimited to being pulled behind, and powered by, a tractor. It is notsuited to function with multiple vehicles, or to using various methodsof powering the implement's apparatuses. It does not easily extend oradjust depth to accommodate excavation needs. Later patent applicationfor enhancements have included many of these upgrades. However, theimplement still is dependent on tractors, which are not as maneuverableas modern day skid steer vehicles, zero-turn vehicles, or trackedvehicles. Many tractors are not equipped with hydraulic support forimplement functioning. The three-point-hitch of tractors is typically inthe rear, leaving it difficult for the operator to see the apparatusesand follow lines on the ground. These challenges with use of thetractor-mounted version of the implement are addressed in the currentapplication.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The objective of this application is to present a conceptualization ofMcGee's implement, along with its interchangeable apparatuses forexcavation tasks, in a new combination, attached to any of a variety ofvehicles for propelling the implement. This application pairs theimplement with alternative vehicles currently found in the prior art andin commercial applications, and provides for alternative poweringsources and maneuvering mechanisms for the implement.

A first embodiment is a vehicle-attached excavation implement, withinterchangeable task-associated rotational excavation apparatuses.Excavation tasks that can be accomplished include foundations, trenches,rounded ditches and shallow V-shaped ditches, excavation of landscape orgarden beds, and shallow graded areas for sidewalks or simple slabs.Excavated spoils are deposited on the banks of the newly excavateddepression. The implement will be attached to or within a vehicle formovement along the ground, using a frame, booms or arms. The apparatusesare mounted to the implement on an axle or hub appropriate for the taskand the selected apparatus. The apparatuses are rotatable, around anaxle or hub axis that is horizontal to the ground.

Any number of vehicle types could be used for attachment of theimplement. The vehicle itself is not considered an element of thisinvention, but rather is an exploited mechanism to utilize the attachedimplement. Many vehicles are present in the prior art that would sufficeas a delivery mechanism for the implement. For example, thevehicle-attached implement can be propelled using wheels or continuoustracks. The implement can be guided or maneuvered by skid steer,zero-turn steering, remote control, computer-assisted steering,conventional steering, or hand-guided steering wherein the operatorwalks behind or beside the unit, or the operator sits or stands on aplatform.

Power is diverted from the vehicle to the apparatuses, and may employ avariety of sources, depending on the type, size and features of thevehicle utilized. Hydraulic power will be an option on many of thepotential vehicles. Alternatively, an independent power source may beutilized.

The vehicle-attached implement, supported within or near the motorizedvehicle by one or more arms or booms, or a frame, has multiple movableapparatuses. Movement can be accomplished by moving the implement'sframe, booms or arms, or by moving the axle of the selected apparatusindependently. The arms or booms can extend away from or contract backtoward the vehicle. The implement's apparatuses are able to pivot, tilt,and raise and lower vertically. These movements are meant to accommodateinclines in ground or in the excavation task, but also the depth of theexcavation. Footings that step-down in increments, such as for masonryinstallation, can be guided by computer or other means. Depth ofexcavation can additionally be assisted by laser, which beams to amarked depth indicator on the implement.

Operators and nearby bystanders are protected from excavated debris byguards strategically located. The guards' location, material, and usewill be guided by the type and size of the vehicle chosen for attachmentof the implement.

The axle of certain apparatuses are equipped with ‘fins’ or continuousblades, attached to exposed sections of the axle. The fins or blades canbe welded in place in some instances, and secured in place prior to thetask in other instances. Fins are principally perpendicular to body ofthe apparatuses, but angle laterally or extend spirally around exposedaxle to move excavated soil to outer banks of the resulting excavateddepression.

A second embodiment includes a plurality of rotational excavationapparatuses, each shaped and designed for a different excavation task.The apparatuses are each equipped with claws or cutting elementsattached to the face of the apparatus, at lateral angles to propel soiloutward, or medial angles to propel soil toward center. There areadditionally a set of tines attached vertically, extending past depth ofclaws, to break up soil for ease in excavation. A second set of tines isattached horizontally to extend width of excavation area on certainapparatuses. These tines are adjustable and may be expanded and lockedor bolted in place based on the need for excavation task.

Advantages of the proposed embodiments in this application include thoseseen in the McGee Tractor Mounted Excavation Implement, such as itspracticality and straightforward operation, and its safety, economy andconvenience compared to larger, bulkier equipment. Its most uniquefeatures include its speed, effectiveness and flexibility. Its excavateddepressions are ‘cleaner’ and more precise than those of larger,clumsier equipment, and are created in significantly less time. Lastly,but most importantly, its multiple interchangeable apparatuses providesolutions to numerous excavation tasks.

In the proposed embodiments herein, added advantages include improvedversatility, with potential attachment to any number of vehicles, andvarious powering sources and maneuvering options. The need for a tractorwith power-take-off capability is eliminated, and hydraulic control isone more effective option for powering implement apparatuses.Transporting various machines to the job site is replaced by onevehicle-attached implement with multiple apparatuses. Enhancements inaccommodating excavation needs include methods to adjust and extenddepth of cut and width or area excavated. In most vehicle-attachedcircumstances, the operator will have improved line of vision of theimplement and apparatus operation.

Compared to larger, bulkier equipment such as backhoes, speed andprecision in digging foundation footings is enhanced. Compared tochain-type trenchers, adjustable width of excavation and less extensivemaintenance are key features. Compared to large ditchers, beddingequipment and boxblades, the need for transporting, storing andmaintaining heavy equipment is reduced. Tillers and sod removers performa portion of the work for creating sidewalks and slabs, but do notfulfill the whole task. Having the versatility of the McGee implementextended to applications other than tractor-pulled with power-take-offrotational power will provide solutions previously unrealized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a rear sectional view of a substantially cylindricaltrencher apparatus, with outer sections of foundation apparatus removed,extending from the vehicle on one arm, and the resulting trench.

FIG. 2 shows a rear sectional view of a substantially cylindrical,drum-shaped apparatus for foundational footings with threeinterconnected sections in place, extending from the vehicle on one arm,and the resulting foundation footer excavation.

FIG. 3 shows a different rear sectional view of a substantiallycylindrical, drum-shaped apparatus for foundational footings with twointerconnected sections in place, extending from the vehicle on one arm,with laterally extending tines secured to widen the width of cut, andthe resulting foundation footer excavation.

FIG. 4 shows a rear view of a substantially spherical apparatus forshallow rounded ditches, extending from the vehicle on one arm, and theresulting U-shaped ditch. Laterally angled claws or cutting elements arevisible on the face of the apparatus.

FIG. 5 shows a rear sectional view of a substantially prolateellipsoidal apparatus for parabolic or shallow V-shaped ditches,extended from the vehicle on two arms.

FIG. 6 shows a rear sectional view of a substantially cylindrical,drum-shaped apparatus for foundational footings with threeinterconnected sections in place, extending from the vehicle on twoarms, on a square axle with centrifugal sweepers, and the resultingfoundation footer excavation.

FIG. 7 shows rear sectional view of a substantially cylindrical, rollerapparatus for shallow graded excavations, extending from the vehicle ontwo arms, and the resulting sidewalk excavation. Vertically extendedtines for breaking apart the soil are seen in profile; laterally angledclaws or cutting elements are not shown.

FIG. 8 shows rear sectional view of a substantially cylindrical,hourglass-shaped apparatus for mounded landscape or garden bedexcavations, extending from the vehicle on two arms, and the resultingmound of soil in center of excavation. Medially angled claws or cuttingelements for harvesting the soil directionally toward the center areseen in profile.

FIG. 9 shows an oblique view of a directional harvester ‘claw’ orcutting element that is attached at intervals to the face of eachapparatus. Laterally angled, soil is directed to lateral banks of theexcavation, and medially angled, soil is directed toward the center andmounded between two excavated depressions.

FIG. 10 shows an oblique view of a square axle, fit into a pocket thatattaches to rotational power source, and equipped with centrifugallyextended sweeper blades, for cleaning sides or banks of excavated area.Axle can be used alone for cleaning, or to rotate narrower apparatusesand assist in moving soil up and out.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the cylindrical, drum-shapedapparatus, shown in one potential configuration, extending from atracked vehicle with attached frame, on an adjustable boom, and theresulting foundation footer excavation. Spiral sweeper blade is seen onexposed axle.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the spherical apparatus, shown inone potential configuration, extended from a stump-grinder vehicle withattached frame, and the resulting rounded-U ditch.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the prolate ellipsoidal apparatus,shown in one potential configuration, extended from a zero-turn vehiclewith attached frame, on two arms, and the resulting parabolic or shallowV-shaped ditch.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cylindrical, drum-shaped apparatus,shown in one potential configuration, extending from a skid-steervehicle with attached frame, on two arms, and the resulting foundationfooter excavation.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the cylindrical, roller apparatus,shown in one potential configuration, extending from a rough-terrainforklift type vehicle with attached frame, on two arms, and theresulting sidewalk/slab excavation.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the substantially cylindrical,hourglass-shaped apparatus, shown in one potential configuration,extending from a tractor equipped with a front end loader mechanism withattached frame on two arms, and the resulting mounded bed excavation.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the cylindrical, drum-shaped apparatus,shown in one potential configuration, extending from a reversedzero-turn vehicle on an expanding boom, attached on one arm, and theresulting foundation footer excavation. Also shown is one potentialconfiguration for depth control using a laser-assisted mechanism in astep-down approach.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

This embodiment combines vehicles from the prior art with an implementand apparatuses set forth in the previously patented Tractor MountedExcavation Implement, and later Enhancements and Extensions to theimplement. While the vehicles themselves are not claimed herein,multiple combinations are presented to show how the implement couldexploit various delivery platforms. Additionally, various mechanismsproviding rotational power to the apparatuses are shown, as are numerousmethods of directing and maneuvering the apparatus for increasedversatility.

Rather than a tractor-mounted implement, presented herein is avehicle-attached excavating implement for multiple excavating tasks,referred to as the task-associated excavations of depressions in theearth. These interchangeable task-associated rotational excavatingapparatuses can address numerous tasks including, but not limited to,forming foundation footings, ditches, trenches, landscape or gardeningbeds, or shallow graded excavations for sidewalks or simple slabs. Usingthe rotational excavating apparatuses allows excavated spoils to beeasily deposited on banks of a newly formed depressions.

FIGS. 1 through 8 illustrate the various apparatuses as they might beviewed when attached to a vehicle. In the previously embodied implement,all apparatuses were interchangeable within a heavy perimetrical framethat was dragged behind a tractor, with the power-take-off unit of thetractor supplying rotational power to the apparatuses. This embodimentsuggests an implement that can vary in shape and form depending on thevehicle for which it is manufactured to attach. A frame, booms or armsattached to or within a motorized vehicle will support the apparatuses,which are mounted on a rotatable axle or hub horizontal to the earth.FIGS. 9 and 10 show specific elements of the embodiment in more detail.

Regardless of the vehicle selected, the implement will provide a meansof harvesting and directing soil. Most apparatuses direct soil up,outside, and laterally away from the excavated depression, while one isdesigned to direct soil medially, toward the center area of twoexcavated depressions. A task-associated rotational excavating apparatusis chosen for a designated task. Each apparatus is formed in a practicalwidth and shape for its designated excavation task. The vehicle selectedwill determine the most effective rotational power system for theapparatus, either relating power from the motorized vehicle or providingan independent source to operate selected rotational excavatingapparatus.

FIGS. 11 through 17 pair various apparatuses with several vehicles thatcould serve to mobilize and power the implement. While the vehiclesthemselves are not claimed herein, it is necessary to illustrate theversatility of the implement when considering its attachment to avehicle. Selecting a vehicle for propulsion the implement along theground along the ground may consider several options. Vehicles utilizingwheels or continuous tracks, either of steel or re-enforced rubber,could be selected as a means of reducing traction and slippage whileimproving stability and steadiness in propulsion of the implement.Several types of vehicles, including those with conventional steering,skid steer or zero-turn steering, remote or computer-assisted steering,or hand-guided steering such as walking, behind or beside, standing orsitting on platform, can be considered to navigate or maneuver theimplement along the ground. Such steering mechanisms can eitherintegrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle. A poweringmechanism for the task-associated rotational excavating apparatuses musteither integrated into the vehicle or an independent source must beimplemented. Options include hydraulics, power-take-off connection, ordirect electro-mechanical connection. There is a slight risk of airbornesoil and debris when the apparatuses are in use, so any vehicleattachment must consider how the operator will be protected. The type ofprotection will vary with the type of vehicle chosen and the manner inwhich the implement attaches.

As shown in FIG. 1, the ‘trencher’ apparatus, indicated by numeral 101,is cylindrical and relatively narrow compared to ‘footer’ apparatus, notshown in FIG. 1, with lateral sections of footer apparatus removed for anarrower apparatus. Trencher 101 attaches to or within the vehicle via aframe, or one or more arms or booms. FIG. 1 shows the trencher 101 inone potential configuration, extended from the vehicle on one arm,indicated by numeral 102. The rotational power source, indicated bynumeral 104, is powered from the vehicle, pathway not shown, orindependently. The rotational power source attaches to an axle or, asshown in FIG. 1, a hub, indicated by numeral 106, which provides an axisaround which apparatus rotates, mounted parallel to the ground, andlowered and raised using the arm 102. The cylindrical apparatus 101rotates toward vehicle, and tines, indicated by numeral 108, extend outfrom the body, indicated by numeral 110, are utilized to initially breakapart soil for easier excavation. The face of the apparatus, indicatedby numeral 112, is equipped with ‘claws’ or cutting elements, whichharvests and directs soil forward, up and out onto banks of excavation,indicated by numeral 114. The resulting trench, indicated by numeral116, has a flat base and relatively ‘clean’ sides. Depth can be adjustedby moving the arm 102 up and down, with maximum depth determined by thelocation of the axle or hub 104.

FIG. 2 shows a ‘footer’ apparatus, indicated by numeral 201, alsocylindrical and drum-shaped. The footer apparatus 201 is shown with twolateral sections in place. Footer 201 attaches to or within the vehiclevia a frame, or one or more arms or booms. The footer apparatus 201 isshown in FIG. 2 in one potential configuration, configured in a similarmanner to the trencher apparatus 101 in FIG. 1. The footer apparatus 201is shown attached to the vehicle, not shown, via one arm, indicated bynumeral 102, but could also be attached with two arms, a boom, or aframe. The rotational power source, indicated by numeral 104, is poweredfrom the vehicle, not shown, or independently. The rotational powersource 104 attaches to an axle or, as shown in FIG. 2, a hub, indicatedby numeral 106, which is mounted parallel to the ground, and is loweredand raised using the arm 102. The cylindrical apparatus 201 rotatestoward vehicle, and tines, indicated by numeral 108, extend out from thebody, indicated by numeral 210, are utilized to initially break apartsoil for easier excavation. The face of the apparatus, indicated bynumeral 212, is equipped with laterally angled ‘claws’ or cuttingelements, indicated by numeral 114, which harvest and direct soilforward, up and out onto banks of excavation. The resulting footer,indicated by numeral 216, has a flat base and relatively ‘clean’ sides,with spoils deposited on banks of depression. Depth can be adjusted bymoving the arm 202 up and down, with maximum depth determined by thelocation of the axle or hub 204.

FIG. 3 shows a different configuration of the ‘footer’ apparatus,indicated by numeral 301, yet cylindrical and drum-shaped as in FIG. 2.The footer apparatus 301 is shown with one lateral section in place. Thefooter apparatus 301 is shown configured in a similar manner to thetrencher apparatus 101 in FIG. 1 and the footer apparatus 201 in FIG. 2.Vertically protruding tines 108 from the body, indicated by numeral 312,are still used to break the soil apart. Additionally, horizontallyadjustable tines, indicated by numeral 310, are shown extending from theface, indicated by numeral 314, of the apparatus 301. The footerapparatus 301 is shown similarly to FIG. 2, attached to the vehicle viaone arm 102, with the axle's rotational power source 104 powered fromthe vehicle or independently. The axle or hub mounting 106, rotationalpower source 104, and depth control are similar to FIG. 2, and theapparatus may also be raised and lowered using the arm 102. Rotation andpresence of ‘claws’ or cutting elements, not shown in thisconfiguration, on face 314, allow excavation of a footer, indicated bynumeral 316, with a horizontal base and relatively ‘clean’ sides.

FIG. 4 shows a ‘rounded-U ditcher’ apparatus, indicated by numeral 401,which is spherical in shape. The rounded-U ditcher apparatus 401 isshown in one potential configuration, attached to the vehicle, notshown, via one arm, indicated by numeral 102, but could also be attachedwith two arms, a boom, or a frame. The axle's rotational power source,indicated by numeral 104, is powered from the vehicle, not shown, orindependently. The rotational power source 104 is mounted to an axle orhub, not shown, is parallel to the ground, and is lowered and raisedusing the arm 102. The spherical rounded-U ditcher apparatus 401 rotatestoward vehicle, and the face of the apparatus, indicated by numeral 412,is equipped with ‘claws’ or cutting elements, indicated by numeral 414,which harvest and direct soil forward, up and out onto banks ofexcavation. The resulting excavated ditch has a rounded-U shape,indicated by numeral 416. Depth can be adjusted by moving the arm 102 upand down, with maximum depth determined by the location of the axle orhub.

FIG. 5 shows a top sectional view of a ‘shallow-V ditcher’ apparatus,indicated by numeral 501, which is a prolate ellipsoidal shape. Theshallow-V ditcher apparatus 501 is shown in one potential configuration,attached to the vehicle or frame on two arms, indicated by numerals 502.The shallow-V ditcher apparatus 501 could also be attached with one arm,a boom, or a frame. The axle's rotational power source, indicated bynumeral 504, is powered from the vehicle, not shown, or independently.The axle, not visible in FIG. 5, extends from the rotational powersource 504 through the body of the apparatus 501 to a connecting hub,indicated by numeral 506. The shallow-V ditcher apparatus 501 is mountedparallel to the ground, and is lowered to ground level using the arms502. The prolate ellipsoidal shallow-V ditcher apparatus 501 rotatestoward vehicle, and the face of the apparatus, not seen, is equippedwith laterally angled ‘claws’ or cutting elements 414, which harvest anddirect soil forward, up and out onto banks of excavation. The resultingexcavated ditch has a shallow-V shape, indicated by numeral 516. Depthcan be adjusted by moving arms 502 up and down, with maximum depthdetermined by the location of the axle at ground level.

FIG. 6 shows a top sectional view of a ‘foundation footer’ apparatus,indicated by numeral 601, which is a cylindrical drum shape. Thefoundation footer apparatus 601 is shown in one potential configuration,attached to the vehicle or frame on two arms, indicated by numerals 502.The foundation footer apparatus 601 could also be attached with one arm,a boom, or a frame. The axle's rotational power source, indicated bynumeral 504, is powered from the vehicle, not shown, or independently.The axle, indicated by numeral 508, extends from the rotational powersource 504 through to a connecting hub, indicated by numeral 506. Theaxle shown in FIG. 6 is a square pocketed axle, with centrifugallyextended sweeper blades, indicated by numeral 10. This type of axle isfurther described in FIG. 10. The foundation apparatus 601 is mountedparallel to the ground, and is lowered to ground level using the arms502. The foundation apparatus 601 rotates toward vehicle, and the faceof the apparatus, not seen, is equipped with ‘claws’ or cuttingelements, which harvest and direct soil forward, up and out onto banksof excavation. The resulting excavated foundation, indicated by numeral616, has a smooth base and relatively ‘clean’ sides. Depth can beadjusted by moving the arms 502 up and down, with maximum depthdetermined by the location of the axle at ground level.

FIG. 7 shows a top sectional view of a ‘shallow grader sidewalk/slab’apparatus, indicated by numeral 701, which is a cylindrical rollershape. The sidewalk/slab apparatus 701 is shown in one potentialconfiguration, attached to the vehicle on two arms, indicated bynumerals 502. The sidewalk/slab apparatus 701 is wider than otherapparatuses, not lending itself to one-arm attachment, but could also beattached on a frame. The axle's rotational power source, indicated bynumeral 504, is powered from the vehicle, not shown, or independently.The axle, not visible in FIG. 7, extends from the rotational powersource 504 through the sidewalk/slab to a connecting arm, indicated bynumeral 506. The sidewalk/slab apparatus 701 is mounted parallel to theground, and is lowered to ground level using the arms 502. Thecylindrical roller sidewalk/slab apparatus 701 rotates toward vehicle,and the face of the apparatus is equipped with ‘claws’ or cuttingelements, indicated by numeral 414, which harvest and direct soilforward, up and out onto banks of excavation. The resulting excavationhas a shallow graded shape, as indicated by numeral 716. Depth can beadjusted by moving the arms 502 up and down, with maximum depthdetermined by the location of the axle at ground level.

FIG. 8 shows a top sectional view of a mounded ‘bedder’ apparatus,indicated by numeral 801, which is substantially cylindrical, but with aconcave body of hourglass shape. The bedder apparatus 801 is shown inone potential configuration, attached to the vehicle on two arms,indicated by numerals 502. The bedder apparatus 801 is wider than otherapparatuses, not lending itself to one-arm attachment, but could also beattached on a frame. The axle's rotational power source, indicated bynumeral 504, is powered from the vehicle, not shown, or independently.The axle, not visible in FIG. 8, extends from the rotational powersource 504 through the sidewalk/slab apparatus body to a connecting hub,indicated by numeral 506. The bedder apparatus 801 is mounted parallelto the ground, and is lowered to ground level using the arms 502. Thecylindrical hourglass bedder apparatus 801 rotates toward vehicle, andthe face of the apparatus, is equipped with medially angled ‘claws’ orcutting elements, indicated by numeral 414, which harvest and directsoil forward and medially toward center of excavation. The resultingexcavation has a mounded bed shape, indicated by numeral 816. Depth canbe adjusted by moving the arms 502 up and down, with maximum depthdetermined by the location of the axle at ground level.

FIG. 9 shows an oblique view of a directional harvester ‘claw’ orcutting element, indicated by numeral 901, that is attached at intervalsto the face of each apparatus. Each claw has a flat base, indicated bynumeral 902, for attachment to the face of apparatuses. Claws are boltedin place for easy removal if needed for maintenance. Each claw extendsout from the base on the face of the apparatus, vertically away from thebase, as shown by numeral 904. The claw has a knuckle, permanently bentat approximately a 90-degree angle, as shown by numeral 906. Lastly, theclaws have an angled cutting element, shown by numeral 908, parallel tothe face of the apparatuses, which are responsible for cutting into,harvesting and dispersing soil. Laterally angled, soil is directed tolateral banks of the excavation, and medially angled, soil is directedtoward the center and mounded between two excavated depressions.

FIG. 10 shows an oblique view of an alternative axle, indicated bynumeral 1001 which may be used to support narrower apparatuses, orindependently to clean out an excavated area. The axle 1001 is squareand fits into a pocket, shown by numeral 1002 that can be secured to arotational power source, not shown. Hinged ‘sweeper blades’ are attachedat intervals to axle 1001, and are indicated by numeral 1004. Sweeperblades 1004 extend away from base of axle 1001 by centrifugal force,when axle 1001 is rotated. The axle is designed to sweep away smallparticles of soil for further cleaning of an excavated area.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the cylindrical, drum-shapedapparatus for foundation footings 201, as previously described. As anexample of how apparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the foundationapparatus 201 is shown attached to a tracked vehicle, indicated bynumeral 1101. Tracks propel the vehicle across the earth, indicated bynumeral 1102. The tracked vehicle 1101 is shown in one potentialconfiguration, with a standing platform 1104 for ease of operation, withcontrols at elbow level, shown by numeral 1106, but other methods ofoperation could be configured. A boom extends from the vehicle,indicated by numeral 1108, and the boom can be raised or lowered by atelescoping power shaft, indicated by numeral 1110. A curved arm extendsfrom the boom to the axle or hub of the apparatus, indicated by numeral1112. Power is diverted from vehicle 1101 the apparatus 201, withseveral options for diversion, not shown. A rotational power source, notshown, is used to rotate axle 1114, and thus foundation apparatus 201,to create a foundation footer, indicated by numeral 1116. A continuoussweeper blade is shown in a spiral configuration around axle 1114,indicated by numeral 1118, to further move excavated soil away fromfoundation excavation. A metal plate as shown as one means of protectingoperator from excavated debris, indicated by numeral 1120.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the spherical apparatus forrounded-U ditches 401, as previously described. As an example of howapparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the rounded-U ditcher apparatus401 is shown attached to a stump-grinder vehicle, indicated by numeral1201. The vehicle 1201 is shown propelled on wheels, indicated bynumeral 1202 and utilizes hand-controlled mechanism, indicated bynumeral 1204, to be operated by a stand-beside operator. Depth ofexcavation is controlled by a metal plate, indicated by numeral 1206,which extends forward at an incline, notched into frame and secured. Theframe, has two vertical bars, notched and bent inward, indicated bynumeral 1208. An arm, indicated by numeral 1210, extend forward forattachment of the apparatus 401. Power in this configuration is divertedfrom vehicle 1201 to rotational power source of apparatus, pathway notshown. As shown, the axle of apparatus 401 is held above the groundlevel, as shown by arrow 1212, resulting in a relatively shallowrounded-U shape ditch, indicated by numeral 1216.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the prolate ellipsoid apparatus forshallow-V ditches 501, as previously described. As an example of howapparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the shallow-V ditcher apparatus501 is shown attached to a zero-turn vehicle, indicated by numeral 1301.The vehicle 1301 is shown propelled on wheels, indicated by numeral 1202with hand-controlled mechanism, indicated by numeral 1302, to be workedby a seated operator. The attached frame, has a metal plate extendingforward from the vehicle, indicated by numeral 1304. The frame 1304 isbeneath the foot-rest platform, indicated by numeral 1306, and serves adual purpose, providing a frame for the apparatus and a metal guard toprotect the operator. Two arms, indicated by numeral 1308, extend downvertically, for attachment of the apparatus 501. Power in thisconfiguration is diverted from vehicle 1201 through hydraulics, shown bynumeral 1310. As shown, the resulting in a relatively shallow-V shapeditch, indicated by numeral 1316.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the cylindrical, drum-shapedapparatus for foundation footings 201, as previously described. As anexample of how apparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the foundationapparatus 201 is shown attached to a skid-steer vehicle, indicated bynumeral 1401. The vehicle 1401 is shown propelled on wheels, indicatedby numeral 1202 with cabin for operator, indicated by numeral 1402.Depth of excavation is controlled by a bars, indicated by numeral 1404,that raise and lower frame, indicated by numeral 1406. Frame 1406 has avertical metal plate that has the dual purpose of providing a frame anda guard to protect the operator. Two arms, indicated by numeral 1408,supported by angled braces, indicated by numeral 1410, extend forwardfor attachment of the apparatus 201. Power in this configuration isprovided by hydraulics, indicated by numeral 1310, to rotational powersource of apparatus, not shown. As shown, the axle of apparatus 201 isheld parallel at ground level, with the resulting foundation footerindicated by numeral 1416.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the cylindrical, roller apparatusfor sidewalks/slabs 701, as previously described. As an example of howapparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the foundation apparatus 701 isshown attached to a rough-terrain forklift type vehicle, indicated bynumeral 1501. The vehicle 1501 is shown propelled on wheels, indicatedby numeral 1202 with cabin for operator, indicated by numeral 1502.Depth of excavation is controlled by elevator bars, indicated by numeral1504, that raise and lower frame, indicated by numeral 1506. Frame 1506has two arms that extend forward, indicated by numeral 1508, attachingto a perpendicular bar, indicated by numeral 1510. From theperpendicular bar 1510, two additional arms, indicated by numeral 1512,extend forward for attachment of the apparatus 701. Power in thisconfiguration is diverted from vehicle 1501 through hydraulics,indicated by numeral 1310 to rotational power source of apparatus, notshown. As shown, the axle of apparatus 701 is held parallel to but abovethe ground level, resulting in a relatively shallow sidewalk excavationindicated by numeral 1516.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the cylindrical hourglass-shapedapparatus for mounded beds 801, as previously described. As an exampleof how apparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the bedder apparatus 801is shown attached to a tractor equipped with a front end loadermechanism, indicated by numeral 1601. The vehicle 1601 is shownpropelled on wheels, indicated by numeral 1202, with conventionaltractor-loader mechanisms, indicated by numeral 1602, to be controlledby a seated operator. Depth of excavation is controlled by tow hydrauliclifts, indicated by numeral 1604. Two booms, indicated by numeral 1606,extend forward and down for attachment to the frame, indicated bynumeral 1608. Frame 1608 consists of two perpendicular metal plates thatextend down vertically and forward from the booms 1606. Two arms,indicated by numeral 1610, extend down from forward plate of frame 1608.Power in this configuration is diverted from vehicle 1601 throughhydraulics or other means, not shown, to rotational power source ofapparatus, not shown. As shown, the axle of apparatus 801 is held atground level, resulting in a mounded bed of soil, indicated by numeral1616.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the cylindrical drum-shapedapparatus for foundation footings 201, as previously described. As anexample of how apparatuses might be vehicle-attached, the foundationapparatus 201 is shown attached to a reversed zero-turn vehicle,indicated by numeral 1701. The vehicle 1701 is shown propelled onwheels, indicated by numeral 1202, with operator standing or seated,indicated by numeral 1702, or walking beside unit. Control could be byhand-assisted control or by remote control, not shown. Depth ofexcavation is controlled by hydraulic lift, indicated by arrow andnumeral 1704, and laser beam from tripod, indicated by numeral 1706, tovertical measuring rod, indicated by numeral 1708. A boom, indicated bynumeral 1710, extends forward as shown by arrows for attachment toapparatus 201. Boom 1710 also tilts in either direction to accommodateinclines, as shown by curved arrows, indicated by number 1712. One arm,indicated by numeral 1714, extends down from boom 1710 to apparatus 201.Power in this configuration is diverted from vehicle 1701 through boom1710 and arms 1714 to rotational power source of apparatus, not shown.Alternatively, power and control could be accomplished through remotecontrol, hydraulics, or other means, not shown. As shown, the axle ofapparatus 201 is held at ground level, and adjusted at intervals,resulting in a foundation footing formed in a step-down approach,indicated by numeral 1716.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vehicle-attached excavating implement for thetask-associated excavation of depressions in the earth, wherebyexcavation tasks include, but are not limited to, forming foundationfootings, ditches, trenches, landscape or gardening beds, or shallowgraded excavations for sidewalks or simple slabs, and whereby excavatedspoils are deposited on banks of a newly formed depression, with theimplement comprising: a. a frame, booms or arms attached to or within amotorized vehicle that is propelled along the ground, with b. aplurality of interchangeable task-associated rotational apparatuses,each mounted on a substantially horizontal rotatable axle or hub, in avariety of shapes for completing differing tasks, and c. a means ofharvesting and directing soil up, outside, and laterally away from ormedially toward center of resulting excavated depression, comprising: i.at least one of said task-associated rotational excavating apparatusesof practical width and shape for designated excavation task, and ii. apower diversion system relating power from the motorized vehicle or anindependent source to selected rotational excavating apparatus.
 2. Thevehicle-attached excavation implement as described in claim 1, whereinpropulsion of vehicle, and thus implement, along the ground along theground is facilitated by a means of reducing traction and slippage whileimproving stability and steadiness propulsion, with said means selectedfrom the group consisting of, but not limited to, wheels or continuoustracks, of steel or re-enforced rubber.
 3. The vehicle-attachedexcavation implement described in claim 1, wherein said excavatingimplement is navigated or maneuvered along the ground with a steeringmechanism either integrated into the vehicle or independent from thevehicle, selected from the group consisting of, but not limited to,conventional steering, skid steer or zero-turn steering, remote orcomputer-assisted steering, or hand-guided steering such as walking,behind or beside, standing or sitting on platform.
 4. Thevehicle-attached excavation implement described in claim 1, with a meansof rotating axle of task-associated excavating apparatuses eitherintegrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle, with saidmeans selected from the group consisting of, but not limited to,hydraulics, power-take-off connection, or direct electro-mechanicalconnection.
 5. The vehicle-attached excavation implement described inclaim 1, with a means of extending and contracting task-associatedexcavating implement away from and back toward said motorized vehicle,with said means either integrated into the vehicle or independent fromthe vehicle. 14
 6. The vehicle-attached excavation machine described inclaim 1, with a means of controlling depth of excavation, eitherintegrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle, with saidmeans selected from a group including, but not limited to, verticallyraising or lowering of said excavating apparatus, along with or separatefrom the implement itself, using hydraulics, computer-assisted control,or laser-assisted technology.
 7. The vehicle-attached excavationimplement described in claim 1, with a means of accommodating incline ofground to be excavated or excavation incline through pivoting or tiltingsaid excavation apparatus, along with or separate from the implementitself, with said means either integrated into the vehicle orindependent from the vehicle.
 8. The vehicle-attached excavationimplement described in claim 1, with a means to guard operator fromexcavated debris, with said means selected from a group including, butnot limited to, chainmail curtains, bumpers, metal mesh, or simpleplastic guards, with said means either integrated into the vehicle orindependent from the vehicle.
 9. A method for excavating, shaping,harvesting or mobilizing soil, whereby spoils are deposited on lateralbanks of, or toward the center of, excavated depressions, utilizing animplement with interchangeable rotational excavation apparatuses fortask-associated excavations, comprising: a. providing a motorizedvehicle for implement attachment and for propelling and navigatingtask-associated excavation implement, b. selecting an apparatus fordesignated task from a plurality of interchangeable apparatuses, eachhaving its own shape, function, and associated task including, but notlimited to, foundation footings, trenches, ditches, landscape orgardening beds, or shallow graded excavations for sidewalks or simpleslabs, c. mounting selected apparatus on a rotatable axle or hub, to orwithin the implement, substantially horizontal to the ground, d.transferring power from said motorized vehicle or an independent sourceto selected apparatus' axle or hub, and e. advancing and maneuveringsaid motorized vehicle with attached excavation implement along ground,with selected apparatus engaged and rotating, whereby forming anexcavated depression, with spoils deposited on banks of excavateddepression.
 10. The method of excavating, shaping, harvesting ormobilizing soil, as described in claim 9, with propulsion of vehicle,and thus implement, along the ground is facilitating by a means ofreducing traction and slippage while improving stability and steadinesspropulsion, with said means selected from the group consisting of, butnot limited to, wheels, or continuous tracks, of steel or re-enforcedrubber.
 11. The method of excavating, shaping, harvesting or mobilizingsoil, as described in claim 9, wherein said excavating implement isnavigated or maneuvered along the ground with a steering mechanismeither integrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle,selected from the group consisting of, but not limited to, conventionalsteering, skid steer or zero-turn steering, remote or computer-assistedsteering, or hand-guided steering such as walking, behind or beside,standing or sitting on platform.
 12. The method of excavating, shaping,harvesting or mobilizing soil, as described in claim 9, with a means ofrotating axle of task-associated excavating apparatuses eitherintegrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle, with saidmeans selected from the group consisting of, but not limited to,hydraulics, power-take-off connection, or direct electro-mechanicalconnection.
 13. The method of excavating, shaping, harvesting ormobilizing soil, as described in claim 9, with a means of extending andcontracting task-associated excavating implement away from and backtoward said motorized vehicle, with said means either integrated intothe vehicle or independent from the vehicle.
 14. The method ofexcavating, shaping, harvesting or mobilizing soil, as described inclaim 9, with a means of controlling depth of excavation, eitherintegrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle, with saidmeans selected from a group including, but not limited to, verticallyraising or lowering axle of said excavating apparatus, along with orseparate from the implement itself, using hydraulics, power-take-offconnection, direct mechanical connection, computer-assisted control, orlaser-assisted technology.
 15. The method of excavating, shaping,harvesting or mobilizing soil, as described in claim 9, with a means ofaccommodating incline of ground to be excavated or excavation inclinethrough pivoting or tilting said excavation apparatus, along with orseparate from the implement itself, with said means either integratedinto the vehicle or independent from the vehicle.
 16. The method ofexcavating, shaping, harvesting or mobilizing soil, as described inclaim 9, with a means to guard operator from excavated debris, with saidmeans selected from a group including, but not limited to, chainmailcurtains, bumpers, metal mesh, or simple plastic guards, with said meanseither integrated into the vehicle or independent from the vehicle. 17.A plurality of interchangeable rotational excavation apparatuses for usein a vehicle-attached excavating implement, formed in a variety ofshapes for excavating differing depressions, comprising: a. asubstantially cylindrical, drum-shaped apparatus, whereby a foundationalfooting or trench with substantially vertical sides and a substantiallyflat, horizontal base may be excavated, with said drum-shapedcylindrical apparatus comprising a plurality of interconnected sectionswherein said sections in lateral positions can be removed for excavatingnarrower footings or trenches, b. a substantially cylindrical,drum-shaped apparatus, whereby a foundational footing or trench withsubstantially vertical sides and a substantially flat, horizontal basemay be excavated, with said drum-shaped cylindrical apparatus comprisinga plurality of interconnected sections wherein said sections in lateralpositions can be removed for excavating narrower footings or trenches,and laterally extending tines can increase the width of excavated areawith one or multiple sections in use, c. a substantially sphericalapparatus, whereby a substantially circular or rounded-U-shaped ditchmay be excavated, d. a substantially prolate ellipsoidal apparatus,whereby a substantially shallow parabolic or rounded-V-shaped ditch maybe excavated. e. a substantially concave-faced cylindrical apparatus,resembling an hourglass shape, whereby a substantially mounded bed withsoil directed inward from two lateral excavated channels may be created,and f. a substantially cylindrical roller-shaped apparatus, whereby asubstantially level, shallow graded space for a sidewalk or simple slabmay be excavated.
 18. The plurality of rotational excavation apparatusesdescribed in claim 17, wherein each said rotational excavating apparatuscomprises a base, of pre-determined shape and dimensions based onassociated task, and a plurality of laterally or medially angled soilharvester claws or cutting elements attached to said base, atpre-determined intervals and angles, whereby soil is harvested,collected, and guided up to a surface and outward toward lateral bordersor inward toward center of said excavated depressions.
 19. The pluralityof rotational excavation apparatuses described in claim 17, wherein eachrotational excavating apparatus is supported by an axle ofpre-determined dimensions, with features appropriate for the associatedtask and dimensions, with said features selected from a group including,but not limited to, sweeper blades to further guide soil outward towardlateral depression borders and a telescoping nature for sectionedapparatuses.